The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach & Golf Resort, nestled on Puerto Rico’s scenic northeast coast, is gearing up for a significant transformation, marking a pivotal moment in the island’s tourism landscape. With a staggering $50 million investment, the resort aims to rejuvenate its offerings, making it a premier destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. This extensive overhaul highlights a robust vision to elevate guest experiences while celebrating the natural beauty that surrounds the property.
At the core of this renovation project is the overhaul of all 400 guest rooms. The design aims to integrate more natural elements, with wood and rattan accents complementing high-quality materials in an elegant fashion. Each bathroom is set to be redefined with luxurious tiles and brass fixtures, establishing a sophisticated ambiance. Additionally, the chosen color palette—a striking combination of ocean blues and earthy rainforest tones—promises to immerse guests in the local scenery, enhancing the overall atmosphere of relaxation and rejuvenation. The phased renovations, which include 200 rooms scheduled for completion by December 2023, set a timeline that progresses through mid-2025, signaling a commitment to quality and meticulous craftsmanship.
The resort’s ten dining establishments are also in line for significant upgrades, reflecting a shift toward elevated culinary experiences. Key among these upgrades is the transformation of Marbella, which will evolve from a breakfast venue into a high-end Spanish restaurant, delighting guests with culinary delights throughout the day. Furthermore, the introduction of an outdoor dining area will create a vibrant space to enjoy local cuisine and entertainment in the evenings. The existing Roots Coastal Kitchen will pivot to a healthy “grab-and-go” concept, catering to the increasing demand for convenient yet nutritious meal options. These enhancements collectively demonstrate the resort’s adaptability to modern dining trends and the importance of culinary experiences in hospitality.
Beyond accommodations and dining, the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar has ambitious plans for diversifying the entertainment offerings as well. A unique casino renovation will channel the vibrant essence of 1950s-60s Puerto Rican and Cuban culture, with retro aesthetics that evoke nostalgia. In addition, a new lounge space will encourage visitors to enjoy cabaret performances, solidifying the resort as a nightlife hub in the region. Future guests will also benefit from an observation deck complete with telescopes, perfect for stargazing or admiring the nearby El Yunque National Forest.
Community and Educational Engagement
Recognizing the importance of community engagement, the resort will introduce the Xplorers Club, designed to provide educational experiences that connect guests of all ages with Puerto Rico’s stunning natural environment. Activities will encompass everything from kayaking on the picturesque Mameyes River to exploring varied ecosystems. Such initiatives not only enrich the guest experience but also reinforce the resort’s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.
Andro Nodarse-Leon, the CEO of LionGrove, envisions this transformation as a strategic pivot toward a luxurious market segment. Recognizing shifting consumer preferences toward upper-scale accommodations, he asserts that the resort has the foundational elements required to attract discerning clientele. This commitment to elevating the guest experience, while keeping pricing competitive, underscores a profound understanding of market dynamics.
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is poised for a revival that embraces luxury, nature, and community, setting the stage for an invigorating future in Puerto Rico’s tourism landscape. As the renovation unfolds, it is clear that this historic resort will not only reinvent itself but will also inspire a new generation of travelers seeking a sophisticated getaway in a breathtaking setting.